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High Moisture Corn for Dairy Cows in Early Lactation

Department of Animal Science, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York

ABSTRACT

Two trials were conducted to evaluate high moisture (HM) corn as the primary concentrate energy source for dairy cows in early lactation. In Trial I, thirty-six Holsteins compared HM shelled corn, dry shelled corn, and a multi-ingredient pelleted dairy concentrate. In Trial II, thirteen Holsteins and three Ayrshires compared HM shelled corn and HM ear corn. Soybean meal was added to each corn. In both trials, conducted for 16 weeks after calving, grain was fed in an attempt to maintain postpartum body weight. Forages, including hay, corn, and grass silages were offered ad libitum.

Total digestible nutrients (TDN) (DM basis) for the respective grain rations from digestion trials were: 89.8, 83.5, 78.6 (Trial I), and 86.4 and 84.0 (Trial II). Corn from different sources was utilized in Trial I. Feeding HM shelled corn in Trial I resulted in significantly lower forage DM intake, milk fat percentage (P < .05), and total DM intake (P < .10), and significantly higher actual milk production (P < .05). Solids-corrected milk (SCM) production was similar for both corn groups, but both were significantly higher than the dairy concentrate group (P < .05). No differences occurred in TDN or grain DM intake. Feeding HM shelled corn in Trial II resulted in lower forage DM intake (P < .05). No other differences were observed between treatment groups.